A Geographical Indication (GI) is a name or sign used on certain products which correspond to a specific geographical location or origin (e.g., a town, region, or country).
The GI tag ensures that none other than those registered as authorised users (or at least those residing inside the geographic territory) are allowed to use the popular product name.
‘Khaje‘, the traditional Goan sweet, predominant at every temple and church fair across the length and breadth of Goa, received the Geographical Indication (GI) notification this week.
The notification states that what gives the ‘khaje’ its distinctive taste is the Goan ginger, local salt and potable well water that goes into making the sweet. The notification also states that the sweet originated centuries ago in Goa.
“Khaje is Goa’s traditional festive sweet treat at temple zatras and church feasts. In Goa, there are numerous festivals celebrated by temples and chapels in almost every village, all year round. After the religious ceremony, devotees go through the fair perusing the stalls set up in the vicinity. One of the most common and popular snacks stacked up like pyramids is the Goan Khaje.”
The Bicholim- based All-Goa Khaje Producers Association (AGKPA) applied for the tag through the department of science and technology a year ago.
